Woodcock Lake Park

4.56

80 reviews

22079 PA-198, Saegertown, PA 16433

Summer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Pennsylvania Boating Camping Pennsylvania Group Camping Pennsylvania +8 more

Quick Facts

1,299 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Open season: May 23,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,299 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Open season: May 23,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Woodcock Lake Park

$18.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Picnic shelter reservations cost $35 for the entire day, while primitive campsites are available for $18 per night. There are no refunds for Scan &...

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$35.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

814-763-4422

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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 80 reviews

100 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanspacioushiking

"Reviews for Woodcock Lake Park Campground often highlight its peaceful and quiet environment, clean and well-maintained sites, and the enjoyment of primitive camping. However, the lack of modern amenities like showers, electricity, and flush toilets is a recurring theme."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

22079 PA-198, Saegertown, PA 16433

Woodcock Lake Park

22079 PA-198, Saegertown, PA 16433

Driving directionsLocated minutes from I-79, travelers can easily access the site via PA-198. Follow signs for Woodcock Creek Lake Park. Proceed carefully as road conditions may vary.

Access from major roads is relatively good due to proximity to I-79. Roads leading directly into the campground are paved but may have some maintenance issues, as user reviews note crumbling blacktop.

Nearby places

Sagertown (approx. 5 miles), Meadville (approx. 8 miles), Cambridge Springs (approx. 12 miles), Conneaut Lake (approx. 15 miles), Edinboro (approx. 25 miles), Erie (approx. 38 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in nearby towns like Meadville and Saegertown, both within a short drive.

Best Time to Camp at Woodcock Lake Park

Northwestern Pennsylvania's temperate climate creates an ever-changing canvas for outdoor enthusiasts at Woodcock Lake. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for lakeside lounging and evening campfires, while spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors. Occasional breezes ripple across the water, providing natural air conditioning on warmer days. While Mother Nature occasionally delivers refreshing rain showers that enhance the forest's earthy aromatics, the region's moderate temperatures and mild summers make this an ideal basecamp for fair-weather campers and seasoned outdoors enthusiasts alike.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season with swimming, boating, fishing, and praise for summer recreation and quiet.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open only through Sept 8; early-fall foliage and cooler weather possible but season is short.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Park opens May 23; late-spring visits offer pleasant weather and wildflowers but season is limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Park closed outside listed season; winter camping/activities not available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 8, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: May 23, 2025 to September 8, 2025. Reservations available starting June 20, 2025.
Current Alerts: Currently closed for camping outside of the specified season. Facilities like bathrooms and showers are out of operation.

About Woodcock Lake Park

Escape to Woodcock Lake Park Campground, where 111 pristine campsites await beneath the watchful stewardship of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This back-to-basics camping haven invites adventurers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature through an impressive array of activities. Cast a line for the day's catch, paddle across mirror-like waters in your kayak, challenge friends to a round of disc golf through wooded fairways, or simply dive into refreshing lake waters on warm summer afternoons. Here, primitive camping means trading modern distractions for the timeless rhythm of outdoor living.

Woodcock Lake Park Campground is a primitive camping facility offering options for tent camping and reservable group shelters. It features 111 primitive sites with no hookups, making it an excellent choice for campers seeking a rustic outdoor experience.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living classroom where conservation meets recreation. The Crawford County Conservation District and Pennsylvania Game Commission have transformed this landscape into a thriving ecosystem that tells the story of responsible land stewardship. Through thoughtfully designed interpretive programs, visitors discover the delicate balance between human enjoyment and wildlife preservation. These protected habitats serve as sanctuaries for native species while offering campers unique opportunities to witness Pennsylvania's natural heritage firsthand. Each trail marker and educational display weaves together threads of ecological wisdom and regional history.

Weather and SeasonsNorthwestern Pennsylvania's temperate climate creates an ever-changing canvas for outdoor enthusiasts at Woodcock Lake. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for lakeside lounging and evening campfires, while spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors. Occasional breezes ripple across the water, providing natural air conditioning on warmer days. While Mother Nature occasionally delivers refreshing rain showers that enhance the forest's earthy aromatics, the region's moderate temperatures and mild summers make this an ideal basecamp for fair-weather campers and seasoned outdoors enthusiasts alike.

ElevationNestled within Pennsylvania's signature rolling hills, the campground offers a gently undulating landscape that adds character to every vista without challenging casual hikers. This perfectly positioned terrain creates natural amphitheaters for campsites and provides just enough elevation change to keep walks interesting while remaining accessible to visitors of all abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Northwestern Pennsylvania's rolling hills, where dense woodlands frame stunning vistas of Woodcock Creek Lake. Morning mist dances across the water's surface while ancient trees stand sentinel over peaceful campsites. The interplay of forest and water creates an ever-changing panorama – from fiery sunrises reflecting off calm waters to moonlit nights when the lake becomes a mirror to the stars. This pristine landscape offers photographers endless compositions and provides nature lovers with a front-row seat to Pennsylvania's understated splendor.

Geological RegionDiscover the gentle beauty of Northwestern Pennsylvania's distinctive landscape at Woodcock Creek Lake. This geological tapestry of rolling hills and verdant woodlands has been sculpted over millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The region's characteristic terrain combines forested ridges with the sparkling waters of Woodcock Creek Lake, forming a natural playground where water meets woodland in perfect harmony. These ancient hills tell the story of Pennsylvania's geological past while providing modern adventurers with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not specifically stated

Check-out

Not specifically stated

Stay Limit

Not explicitly stated

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific information provided

Groups

Group shelters are available for reservation at a rate of $35 per day. These shelters are non-electric and are also offered on a first-come, first-served basis for free when not reserved.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSpread-out layout with large lots and shaded areas. Some sites have slopes.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, contact center, app, or in-person.

Walk-in AvailabilityPrimitive campsites are available Friday-Sunday. Port-a-potties are provided.

Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies for advanced cancellations. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of fees paid for the first night.

AccessibilityPicnic shelters, sidewalks, and parking lots are accessible as per the description of the facilities, but there is no detailed information indicating specific accessibility features in the campsites themselves.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with several described as large and spacious. Reviewers also mention that most sites provide shade.

PrivacyThe campsites are described as offering a good level of privacy, with sites spread apart to create a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Total Campsites111 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose shady sites and avoid sloped campsites for more comfort. Sites closer to water may offer better views.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides a wide array of outdoor activities. Highlights include fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, disc golf, and wildlife viewing. With no motorized boats exceeding 20HP allowed on the lake, the area provides a serene boating experience. There is also a playground and open space for picnics and recreational activities at nearby facilities.

HikingThe area features several walking/hiking trails, including the Bossard Nature Trail. Some trails, like the one across the dam, offer scenic views and are described by reviewers as serene and rewarding. The Bossard Nature Trail, however, has areas where campers may need to navigate washed-out paths.

FishingFishing is available both in the lake, which has a 20HP motorboat limit, and in the stocked stream at the Outflow Recreation Area. Fishing is governed by Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations.

SwimmingThere is a designated swimming area, which reviewers describe as clean and well-maintained, providing a great place to relax during warmer months.

BoatingBoating is a popular activity at the lake. Canoeing and kayaking are specifically mentioned as enjoyable activities, and motorboats are restricted to 20HP, contributing to a tranquil environment.

Wildlife viewingThe campground offers good opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly in the areas managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Beach activitiesThe campground features a beach area that is clean and well-maintained, making it suitable for sunbathing and relaxing. It is a highlight among user reviews.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome sites may have slopes, and crumbling blacktop could pose minor navigation challenges. Port-a-potties are provided, but they may not be convenient for all campers.

Active AlertsCurrently closed for camping outside of the specified season. Facilities like bathrooms and showers are out of operation.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyEach site includes a campfire ring. Follow Leave No Trace practices.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours not explicitly stated.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in nearby Meadville, including Meadville Medical Center (approx. 8 miles). Police services are available locally.

Trash & RecyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Campers must pack out all waste, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

Water FeaturesClose to Woodcock Creek Lake and a swimming beach area. Fishing is available in both the lake and downstream areas.

Camp HostRangers regularly patrol the campground to ensure safety and cleanliness.

Weather at Woodcock Lake Park

Reviews

4.6

80 reviews

Top-Rated

Woodcock Lake Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Woodcock Lake Park Campground often highlight its peaceful and quiet environment, clean and well-maintained sites, and the enjoyment of primitive camping. However, the lack of modern amenities like showers, electricity, and flush toilets is a recurring theme.

Review Summaries

Based on 80 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praise the campground's quiet and spacious sites, clean and well-maintained facilities (including Port-o-Johns), and the natural beauty of the area. The opportunities for...

Based on 80 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes the lack of modern amenities, such as showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups. Some reviewers also noted maintenance issues, such as crumbling roads and water pooling...

Based on 80 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water and being prepared for primitive camping conditions. Some suggest exploring the Bossard Nature Trail and the dam for scenic views.

Based on 80 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In summer, the campground is praised for its recreational opportunities and quiet atmosphere. However, some reviewers expressed a desire for weekday camping availability. In colder seasons, the area...

Based on 80 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground is massive and very clean and looks well maintained.' - Shawna Davis. 2. 'We absolutely love Woodcock Park Campground. There are trails to walk, a wonderful beach, and the...

Based on 80 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #54 was described as clean, quiet, and ideal for kayaking. Campsite #83 was noted for its tranquility and shade. Campsite #46 had mixed reviews, with praise for its location but...

Based on 80 reviews